Accuracy

Definition

Accuracy refers to how closely the results of a public opinion poll reflect the true opinions or preferences of the target population being surveyed.

Analogy

Picture accuracy in a public opinion poll like hitting bullseye on a dartboard. The closer your darts land to the center (representing true opinions), the more accurate your aim (the poll) is.

Related terms

Nonresponse Bias: Occurs when certain groups within the target population are less likely to participate in a public opinion poll, leading to potential inaccuracies.

Question Wording Bias: When phrasing questions in ways that may unintentionally influence respondents' answers and introduce bias into the results.

Selection Bias: Occurs when participants selected for inclusion in a public opinion poll do not accurately represent the entire target population, resulting in skewed results.